The Vineland Board of Education recently voted 6-3 against a proposal to rename Lincoln Avenue Middle School. I believe this was a good decision because it would save families and friends of the deceased a lot of heartache and disappointment in the event that their family member were not selected. There are definitely a lot of heroes in Vineland, and as a spouse of a Vietnam veteran, I understand as much as anyone what sacrifice and heroism is. I can recall numerous Vineland High School and Sacred Heart graduates who lost their lives from the atrocities of Vietnam and other wars. I have numerous members of my family and friend group who have proudly served in uniform, and I have the utmost respect for them.

Vineland Board Policy 7250 states that the naming of a school shall be done to recognize an individual that contributed to the city and its education. For this reason, I feel that schools should be named in honor of educators who have made a great impact on our children. Also, I would be remiss if I did not point out that we already have a Veterans Memorial School to honor ALL veterans. Over the past week, numerous people have shared stories of their loved ones who died in the military, and I just do not think it is fair to choose one over another. All gave some, and some gave all.

Victoria “Vicky” Miller

Vineland

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Vineland teacher Jennifer Pilla speaks to the Vineland Board of Education about naming the new Lincoln Avenue School for her brother, fallen Army Ranger Dominick Pilla, at the Vineland Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, March 14.
Video produced by Justin Odendhal

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A group of lucky fourth-graders were able to make their mark on the new Lincoln Avenue Middle School with a beam signing on Thursday, May 4.

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